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CER26-0010 • 2025

Derrick Ward Posthumous Recognition Resolution of 2025

Derrick Ward Posthumous Recognition Resolution of 2025

Enacted

This bill passed the Legislature and reached final enactment based on the latest official action.

Sponsor
McDuffie
Last action
2025-03-07
Official status
Approved
Effective date
Not listed

Plain English Breakdown

The official source does not provide specific details about the resolution's effective date or any limitations beyond ceremonial recognition.

Resolution Honoring Derrick Ward

This resolution honors Derrick Ward for his contributions to journalism, community service, and mentoring in Washington D.C.

What This Bill Does

  • Recognizes Derrick Ward's significant work as a journalist in radio and television.
  • Celebrates his dedication to the Washington D.C. community and his role as an inspiring mentor to young journalists.
  • Acknowledges his musical talents and warm personality.

Who It Names or Affects

  • Derrick Ward's family
  • Journalists in Washington D.C.
  • Residents of the Marshall Heights and H Street Corridor neighborhoods

Terms To Know

Posthumous Recognition
An honor given after someone has died.
Ceremonial Resolution
A formal document that honors or recognizes an individual or event without creating new laws.

Limits and Unknowns

  • The resolution does not provide any financial support or benefits.
  • It is a ceremonial recognition and has no legal impact beyond honoring Derrick Ward.

Bill History

  1. 2025-03-07 Council of the District of Columbia LIMS

    Resolution ACR26-0010, Effective from Feb 04, 2025 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 002273

  2. 2025-02-04 Council of the District of Columbia LIMS

    Retained by the Council

  3. 2025-02-04 Council of the District of Columbia LIMS

    Legislative Meeting

  4. 2025-02-04 Council of the District of Columbia LIMS

    Approved with Resolution Number ACR26-0010

  5. 2025-02-03 Council of the District of Columbia LIMS

    CER26-0010 Introduced by Councilmember McDuffie at Office of the Secretary

Official Summary Text

Derrick Ward Posthumous Recognition Resolution of 2025

Current Bill Text

Read the full stored bill text 
ENROLLED ORIGINAL
1

A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION

26-10

IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

February 4, 2025

To honor and recognize the life of Derrick Ward and celebrate his profound contributions to
journalism, his unwavering dedication to the Washington, D.C., community, and his
enduring legacy as a loving father and inspiring role model.

WHEREAS, Derrick Ward was born and raised in Washington, D.C. and grew up in the
Marshall Heights and H Street Corridor neighborhoods, attended H.D. Woodson High School,
and graduated from the University of Maryland, reflecting his deep-rooted connection to the
community he served;

WHEREAS, Derrick began his illustrious journalism career in radio, contributing to
esteemed stations such as WPFW, WAMU, and WTOP, where he covered significant events
including the Iran-Contra hearings, September 11th, and the Washington-area sniper shootings;

WHEREAS, throughout his career, Ward served as a mentor to many aspiring journalists,
offering guidance and support to those entering the field. His leadership and dedication to
journalism left a lasting impact on his colleagues and the broader media community;

WHEREAS, in 2006, Derrick joined News4 Washington as a reporter, bringing his
profound knowledge of the city’s history and his exceptional storytelling skills to television
audiences, earning the reputation of News4’s “resident D.C. historian and poet”;

WHEREAS, beyond his journalistic endeavors, Derrick was a talented musician, known
for his proficiency with the guitar, and was celebrated for his warmth, humor, and unwavering
dedication to his craft;

WHEREAS, Derrick Ward passed away on January 7, 2025, at the age of 62;

WHEREAS, Derrick is survived by his 3 children—Derrick Jr., Ian, and Marisa—who
continue to honor his legacy.

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this resolution
may be cited as the “Derrick Ward Posthumous Recognition Resolution of 2025”.
ENROLLED ORIGINAL
2

Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia recognizes and honors the
accomplishments of Derrick Ward and congratulates him on a great season.

Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.